The Met goes green with hybrid
As part of the Mets Safer Neighbourhoods scheme 94 Toyota Prius cars are being used in 29 London boroughs.
As part of the Mets Safer Neighbourhoods scheme 94 Toyota Prius cars are being used in 29 London boroughs. The partnership between the Met, Toyota and National Car Rentals is allowing community support officers to reach their patrol areas, or attend public meetings or surgeries without unduly damaging the environment.
Voted European Car of the Year 2005, the Toyota Prius is one of the worlds most advanced hybrid cars. The car uses a combination of a conventional petrol engine and an electric motor. On the open road, power is taken from both sources, but on start up, when stationary and in slow moving traffic, the Prius switches to its electric motor. In this mode, exhaust emissions are reduced to zero. The Prius is also exempt from the Congestion Charge.
Commander James Smith, head of the Safer Neighbourhoods unit, said: “The work of Safer Neighbourhoods teams is an important contribution to improving the quality of life and environment of those who live and work in London. By using these vehicles, officers are both helping the Met reduce its impact on the environment and working with government towards a cleaner, safer, greener London”.